Father's skin cancer battle inspires fundraiser

As Cindi Krost watched her father undergo cancer treatment, she decided to turn her energy toward the positive.

Teaming up with the Pap Corps Professional Group, Krost is putting on Man vs. Melanoma, a fundraiser to educate families about the dangers of skin cancer, while showing them a good time.

The event promises a "Family Day of Sports and Wellness" starting at 9 a.m. and running until 4 p.m. on May 31 at the Krost estate west of Delray Beach. Proceeds go to skin cancer research at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

The day kicks off with yoga under the tent as Mary Ann Morgan-Fried gently warms up the morning. Next, Yoga Pop matches poses with hip-hop music. Later, Yoga Tone offers adult yoga at a mellow pace.

Children can tackle the obstacle course provided by the Busy Body Fitness Center. Coaches from the Boca Skills Academy are leading a basketball showcase. Karate demonstrations are also set for the afternoon.

Attendees can kick back and listen to live music by the Castaways, or watch performances by the Arts Garage and Showtime Entertainment.

Live and silent auctions will provide shopping opportunities. Gourmet food trucks will be on site.

Mark Reiman of organicgrowndirect.com will set up a farm stand and sell organic fruits and vegetables.

"A lot of our customers have aliments. Doctors are telling them to eat organic food," Reiman said. "It's all about making your body unfriendly to cancer."

Besides entertaining, Krost is spreading the word on melanoma prevention. It kills, she said. Sunburns accumulate over a lifetime. By using sunscreen and covering up, a person can decrease their risk.

At the event, Dr. Marta Rendon, founder of the Rendon Center and associate professor at Florida Atlantic University, will dispense advice on skin protection and cancer screenings.

"Everyone should examine their skin on a monthly basis to look for changes in freckles, moles or any new, unusual spots," Dr. Rendon said. "Early detection is key to a successful outcome."

Krost's father, Gil Zlatkin, 84, is doing well his battle with melanoma, thanks to immunotherapy treatment at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.

"He doesn't get sick like chemotherapy," Krost said. "The treatment builds up his immune system to fight the cancer cells and does not kill healthy cells." Two lesions on his stomach have shrunk.

"My dad is my hero," she said. "He's always been strong and supportive while my mom was fighting breast and lung cancer. He doesn't want to be doted on."

Tickets for the event, at 10394 LaReina Road, are $25 for adults and $10 for children. The basketball showcase is $30. For details and registration, visit PapCorps.org.